I met his eyes head-on.
I'd spent my free time learning about my coworkers, trying to fit in here, in this office. Never thought that info would come in handy like this.
Marcus's face turned purple.
I walked to my desk and pulled a pink card from the center of the bouquet. No signature. Just one line in sharp, forceful handwriting:
"Hope you have a beautiful day."
Silas's handwriting. Of course.
My fingers tightened, then released.
"I ordered these for myself." I turned to face Marcus, expression flat. "New job, new school—I'm treating myself to flowers I like. Got a problem with that? If you're that into them, I can give you the florist's number. You can order a bouquet for that girlfriend you don't have."
Sarah clapped. "Damn right, honey."
Marcus's face went liver-colored. He grabbed his whistle and stormed out.
The tension eased slightly. Sarah patted my shoulder. "Ignore that asshole. But... did you really order these yourself?"
She winked. Clearly didn't believe me.
"Of course." I lied, slipping the card into my pocket. "Class is starting soon. I need to prep."
I looked at the bouquet, already plotting how to get rid of it.
After morning classes,I gathered my things and planned to take Olei out for lunch.
"Olei," I held his small hand as we reached the school gate, "what do you want to eat? Anything you want. My treat."
"Really?" He looked up, eyes bright.
"Absolutely." Seeing his excitement made me smile.
I was about to text Silas—he was Olei's guardian, after all—when a black Rolls-Royce pulled up in front of us.
"That's Daddy's car," Olei said quietly.
I stopped.
The door opened. A bodyguard in a black suit stepped out and nodded politely.
"Ms. Carter, the boss requests you and Olei get in."
Teachers and parents nearby started whispering, glancing over with a mix of awe and curiosity.
"Can we not?" I frowned at him.
He didn't answer. Sunglasses hid his expression. But I knew—damn it, I had no choice.
"Come on, Olei." I gripped his hand and forced myself toward the car.
I ducked inside, letting Olei sit between me and Silas. Once settled, Olei called Silas "Daddy."
The door shut. Noise cut off. In the enclosed space, my senses sharpened. Everything smelled like cedarwood. A gaze locked onto me, like a fine net tracing me from head to toe.
My heartbeat went erratic. I didn't need to turn. I knew Silas was watching me. Even sitting, his massive frame—well over six feet—radiated pressure.
